MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas finally defeated longtime rival Iran, 87-73, in the second round of the 2015 FIBA Asia Championship on Monday, September 28 in Changsha, Hunan, China.
(IN PHOTOS: Gilas takes down giant Iran at FIBA Asia)
The Philippines struggled early and trailed by 6 points at halftime before outscoring Iran 28-17 in the third quarter to take a 65-60 advantage entering the fourth period. (READ: Jayson Castro is still the best point guard in Asia)
Iran led by as much as 10 in the third but the Filipinos went on a run and shut down the Iranians offensively to take the lead. The inspired Gilas performance went on in the fourth frame and took a 14-point edge with a minute left to play.
Jayson Castro, Andray Blatche and Terrence Romeo led the nationals in the victory – their first over Iran since 2012. (WATCH: Terrence Romeo drains stepback triple vs Iran)
The Philippines currently sits atop Group E with a 3-1 record in the second round. They are assured of a quarterfinals slot and a win over India on Tuesday, September 29 will make Gilas the top seed entering the playoffs. (WATCH: Jayson Castro's monster game vs Iran) – Rappler.com